Landlord and tenant solicitors in Leicester

Landlord and tenant solicitors in Leicester

Last updated 26 September 2026. General information, not legal advice.

This area covers residential lettings: disputes between private landlords and tenants over possession, rent, deposits, repairs and licensing. Commercial leases are covered under commercial property.

The rules have changed

The Renters’ Rights Act 2025 is the biggest change to private renting in England for decades. Among other things it ends ‘no-fault’ section 21 evictions, moves most private tenancies onto periodic (rolling) terms, changes the grounds a landlord can use to recover possession, and limits how rent increases are made. The changes are being brought in in stages, so what applies to a particular tenancy depends on dates. If you’re a landlord or a tenant with a dispute, check the current position before you act, and treat older guidance, including notices downloaded from the internet, with caution.

For landlords

Solicitors help landlords serve valid notices, bring possession claims, recover rent arrears, deal with deposit disputes and understand licensing requirements. Procedural mistakes, such as a defective notice or a deposit that wasn’t protected in time, are the most common reason possession claims fail, and they cost months.

For tenants

Tenants usually come to a solicitor about a possession notice or court papers, disrepair the landlord won’t deal with, deposit disputes, or harassment and unlawful eviction. If you’ve received court papers about possession, get advice quickly, as the timetable is short. Legal aid may be available for some housing cases, especially where you are at risk of losing your home, and free advice is available from Shelter and Citizens Advice.

Licensing in Leicester

Houses in multiple occupation normally need a licence, and councils can run additional and selective licensing schemes covering particular streets or areas. Leicester City Council publishes the schemes that apply in the city. Letting without a required licence can lead to fines and rent repayment orders.

Costs

Possession claims and notices are often offered on a fixed-fee basis for each stage. Disrepair and other disputes are more often hourly, and some firms take on tenants’ disrepair claims on a no win, no fee basis.

Common questions

Can a landlord still use a section 21 notice?

For most private tenancies in England, no. The Renters' Rights Act 2025 abolished 'no-fault' section 21 evictions, with the main changes taking effect in 2026. Landlords now need to rely on a specific ground for possession. Check the current rules before serving any notice.

What happens if my landlord didn't protect my deposit?

The landlord may have to pay compensation, and it can affect their ability to recover possession. The rules are technical, so get advice on your particular facts.

Does my landlord need a licence?

Houses in multiple occupation usually need a licence, and councils can also run additional or selective licensing schemes in particular areas. Leicester City Council and the district councils publish details of the schemes that apply.

This guide is general information about the law in England and Wales and isn't legal advice on your situation. Solicitor Leicester is a directory, not a law firm.